Temporary operational adjustments support dog recovery, limit spread, and keep shelter services moving.

Austin, TX – Austin Animal Services has confirmed three cases of Canine Pneumovirus, a not fatal, but highly contagious upper respiratory virus that affects only dogs. Several other dogs are currently showing respiratory symptoms. The virus does not infect cats or humans; however,people can carry the virus on their hands and clothing and unintentionally spread it between dogs. Like viral infections in humans, respiratory viruses in animals can be difficult to prevent, which is why the department is temporarily adjusting shelter operations as a precaution.The department’s top priority is keeping the animals in its care safe and healthy.

Austin Animal services has a response plan in place and is implementing additional measures to prevent further spread of illness, including quarantining dogs as needed and allowing sick dogs time to recover. The shelter is working closely with area partners,including Austin Humane Society and Austin Pets Alive!,who have stepped in to transfer dogs and help clear space on campus to support improved quarantine conditions. These temporary operational changes are expected to remain in place until early January, with updates provided to the public as the situation evolves.

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Austin Animal Center temporarily Adjusts Operations Due to Canine Illness Outbreak

The City of Austin Animal Services Office (austin Animal Center) is temporarily adjusting its operations to address an outbreak of canine illness, prioritizing the health and safety of animals in its care.These changes, announced on December 22, 2023, include temporarily pausing dog adoptions and fostering, and limiting public access to dog areas. The goal is to limit the spread of illness and protect the well-being of shelter animals.

Understanding the Situation

Austin Animal Center is responding to a rise in cases of a respiratory illness affecting dogs. while the specific cause is still under examination by veterinary experts, the Center is taking proactive steps to contain the situation. Similar outbreaks have been reported across multiple states, prompting concern from veterinary professionals nationwide. [^1]

Operational Changes & What They Mean

The following changes are currently in effect:

* Dog Adoptions & Fostering Paused: Adoptions and foster placements for dogs are temporarily suspended. This measure is crucial to prevent possibly spreading the illness to new homes.
* Limited Public Access: Public access to areas housing dogs is restricted. this includes limiting in-person meet-and-greets.
* Continued Services: The Animal Center remains open for essential services, including taking in stray animals, providing lost pet support, and addressing animal welfare concerns. services for cats and other animals are currently unaffected.
* Increased Sanitation & Monitoring: The Animal Center has intensified its cleaning and disinfection protocols and is closely monitoring all dogs for signs of illness.

The Austin Animal Center asks for the public’s patience, partnership, and continued support as it takes these necessary steps to protect shelter animals and limit the spread of illness.

About the Austin Animal services Office

The City of Austin animal Services office operates the Austin Animal Center, serving as the municipal shelter for the City of Austin and unincorporated Travis County. The Center provides care for over 11,000 animals each year and achieves positive outcomes (adoption, return to owner, etc.) for 95% of them. [^2] Their mission focuses on keeping pets with their families, providing a safe haven for homeless animals, promoting responsible pet ownership, and strengthening the human-animal bond.

Key Takeaways

* Temporary Pause: Dog adoptions and fostering are paused to prevent the spread of illness.
* Limited Access: Public access to dog areas is restricted.
* Essential Services Continue: the Animal Center remains open for essential services.
* Proactive Measures: Increased sanitation and monitoring are in place.
* Community support Needed: The Center requests public patience and support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: When will dog adoptions and fostering resume?

A: The resumption of adoptions and fostering will depend on the outcome of veterinary investigations and the triumphant containment of the illness. The Animal Center will provide updates as they become available on their website and social media channels.

Q: What are the symptoms of this canine illness?

A: Symptoms can vary, but commonly include coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If you are concerned about your dog’s health, please consult your veterinarian.

Q: Can I still bring a stray dog to the Animal Center?

A: Yes, the Animal Center continues to accept stray animals. Staff will take appropriate precautions to assess and isolate any potentially ill animals.

Q: Where can I find updates on the situation?

A: The latest information will be posted on the Austin Animal Center website: https://www.austintexas.gov/department/animal-services and their social media channels.

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^1]: American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) -[https://wwwavmaorg/resources-tools/reports-statistics/canine-infectious-respiratory-disease[https://wwwavmaorg/resources-tools/reports-statistics/canine-infectious-respiratory-disease
^2]: City of Austin Animal Services -[https://wwwaustintexasgov/department/animal-services[https://wwwaustintexasgov/department/animal-services